Your Location

You have just stepped off your bus at Pandit Nehru Bus Station, and the temple is calling. Distance sources vary, but the temple is roughly 5 to 6 km from PNBS by road. On a normal day the trip is quick, around 10 to 15 minutes. During Dasara, give yourself much more time. 

Your options 

City or temple buses: temple buses normally run from the bus stand about every 20 minutes. This is the cheapest option, but expect crowds on peak days. Local buses depart from the City Bus Port just north of PNBS. 

Auto or cab: the most flexible choice, especially with luggage or elders. Agree on the fare before you start, or use a meter or an app-based cab where available. 

On foot for the last stretch: at the hill, you can go up by the ghat road or take the steps. 

Insider tips for Dasara 

Leave early. Temple hours normally start at 4:00 am, and in 2023 darshan ran from 4 am to 11 pm on most festival days. Confirm this year's timings. 

Expect traffic control. The temple and police are arranging queue lines, security and traffic control. Some routes near the hill may be diverted, so follow the directions on the ground. 

Add a dip in the Krishna. The river is about 2 km from the RTC bus stand, and many pilgrims bathe there before darshan. 

Know your ticket options. Dharma darshanam is free, and paid options were ₹100 (Mukha Darshanam) and ₹300 (Antralayam Darshanam) on regular days. Festival ticketing may differ. 

Sample plan 

Arrive at PNBS and drop your bags at your hotel, then carry only what you need. 

Head to the temple in the early morning for a shorter queue. 

Finish with a visit to the Krishna riverbank. 

Plan your return ride before you leave the hill. Autos may be harder to find at peak times. 

Frequently asked questions

How far is the temple from PNBS?

Roughly 5 to 6 km by road. One source lists the drive at around 8 minutes on a normal day.

Can I walk from the bus stand?

It is not practical with luggage. Take a bus, auto or cab, and walk only the last stretch up the hill.